Yes, obvious, tedious, but ever so true: first impressions are everything, and in the translation business that means CVs. But cover letters are even more essential, assuming, that is, you want to get your foot in the door.
While I am directing this primarily to translators who are just starting out and seeking to build up a client base, seasoned translators might also find it useful to rethink their approach. Many translators, and not just the new ones, have the sense that their CVs aren’t even being looked at, despite the fact that their qualifications and experience are ideally suited to the particular project in question. Given the number of freelance translators from all over the globalized universe who are apparently applying to every single agency and for every single “solicited” translation project, what in that world is a girl (or boy) to do?
First, it should go without saying that your cover letter should be absolutely meticulous in terms of spelling, syntax and punctuation. After all, you are selling your communication and linguistic skills. Your primary goal, however, is to catch the recipient’s attention so they do in fact read it rather than throw it into some virtual dustbin along with most of the others they’ve received.